Anthony Romero, the long-serving executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), has expressed concern over what he views as a shrinking landscape of civil rights in the United States, particularly during President Donald Trump’s second term. Romero, who has led the organization since 2001, criticized corporate leaders for their reluctance to speak out on critical issues affecting democracy and civil liberties.

Romero noted that, amid challenges such as tariffs disrupting supply chains and aggressive immigration enforcement, many business executives have shied away from publicly addressing matters like election integrity, freedom of speech, and judicial independence. He emphasized that while executives may not agree with the ACLU on all issues, defending the electoral system should be a shared priority. Romero also highlighted the practical implications for businesses, especially those dependent on immigrant labor, and warned that attacks on the rule of law could pose significant risks to the broader business environment.

Despite recognizing that corporate leaders face pressures, including fears of government retaliation and fiduciary responsibilities to shareholders, Romero expressed disappointment that some tech billionaires who supported the ACLU during Trump’s first term have withdrawn their backing in recent years. He described this retreat as troubling, suggesting that power and wealth should afford individuals the independence to speak candidly.

Romero was critical of corporate responses following the 2020 protests sparked by the killing of George Floyd, characterizing many as superficial and transient. He urged private sector leaders to demonstrate courage, especially if efforts were made to undermine electoral processes, noting that such moments would be remembered historically.

Regarding the ACLU’s operations, Romero explained the organization continues to be selective in pursuing legal cases and is deliberate in addressing emerging challenges such as artificial intelligence (AI). The ACLU is examining AI’s potential impact on civil rights, with particular concern over its use in immigration enforcement and possible racial discrimination embedded in automated systems. He pointed to ongoing lawsuits challenging biases in algorithms and expressed caution about surveillance technologies, including facial recognition cameras.

Romero acknowledged criticisms that the ACLU aligns too closely with the Democratic Party but maintained that it remains focused on upholding civil liberties irrespective of political affiliations. While recognizing the Trump administration has been less aggressive in some areas than anticipated, the ACLU continues to monitor government actions vigilantly.

Reflecting on his legacy amid a political climate he describes as especially challenging for democratic institutions, Romero said the erosion of government constraints and checks on power will require sustained, multigenerational effort to restore. Yet, he cited achievements such as the legalization of same-sex marriage as evidence of progress.

Romero's personal background informs his work deeply. Raised in the Bronx and New Jersey, he was the first in his family to finish high school and benefitted from government programs like affirmative action and public housing to achieve educational success, attending Princeton and Stanford. He views these opportunities as fundamental to ensuring equal access and opportunity in society, a principle central to the ACLU’s mission.

While Romero recognizes financial shifts within the organization’s donor base, he remains confident that grassroots support from ordinary members will continue to sustain the ACLU’s efforts to defend civil liberties in the United States.